Motoo Abiko and Hiroshi Fujimoto, the pair known as Fujiko Fujio, were childhood friends who met in Toyama Prefecture.
The city of Himi features a dedicated 'Manga Road' decorated with bronze statues of characters created by Abiko.
Abiko frequently utilized his childhood experiences in Himi as inspiration for the scenery and atmosphere in his manga stories.
The collection is housed in a multi-use cultural facility that often hosts rotating exhibitions related to local arts and history.
Some exhibits provide interactive experiences allowing visitors to simulate the manga creation process used by the artist.
The Fujiko Fujio A Art Collection honors the legacy of Motoo Abiko, one half of the duo behind the Doraemon franchise, located in his hometown of Himi. The museum features original drawings, character sketches, and memorabilia from Abiko’s various manga works including Ninja Hattori-kun and Kaibutsu-kun. It is situated within the Himi City Art Museum building, serving as a hub for fans of classic Showa-era manga. The collection highlights his unique artistic evolution and his deep personal connection to the coastal city of Himi. Visitors can explore various character statues and displays integrated into the town’s broader manga-themed tourism trail.
Beside the life-sized bronze statues of Ninja Hattori-kun located just outside the museum entrance.
Combine your museum visit with a walk along the Himi Manga Road to find all the character statues.
Check the Himi tourism website before visiting to see if any temporary special exhibitions are scheduled.
The area is famous for fresh seafood; plan your visit to coincide with lunch at the nearby Himi Banya-gai fish market.
Don't rush only to the museum; ignoring the outdoor character statues scattered throughout the city streets is a missed opportunity.
Closed on Tuesdays and during the year-end/New Year holiday period.
